Visit of Marques de Riscal & Boutique Winery from Bilbao

Discovering the Flavors of La Rioja in a Day from Bilbao

This full-day wine tour from Bilbao offers an excellent opportunity for food and wine enthusiasts to explore La Rioja’s renowned wineries, taste premium wines, and enjoy stunning scenery in the Ebro Valley. Priced at $294.89 per person, the tour incorporates visits to two distinct wineries with tastings of 3 wines at each, paired with delicious appetizers. The entire experience lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive yet manageable day trip. The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Most booking is made 75 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors to Bilbao.

While the tour delivers a well-rounded introduction to La Rioja’s wine culture, it also offers stunning views of the region’s landscape, making it perfect for photo opportunities and scenic appreciation. The air-conditioned vehicle provides comfort throughout the day, and the meeting point at Radisson Collection Hotel is conveniently located near public transportation. This tour is especially suitable for those with a keen interest in wine, architecture, or regional scenery, seeking an informative and enjoyable experience with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Two winery visits featuring tastings of 3 premium wines each, including red and white varieties
• Includes appetizers such as cheese, chorizo, bread, and nuts at both wineries
• Duration of 5 to 6 hours, starting at 8:30 am from Bilbao
• Small group size with a maximum of 7 participants for a personalized experience
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Booking is recommended at least 75 days in advance due to high demand

Visiting Bodegas Marques de Riscal: A Landmark Winery

The tour begins at Bodegas Marques de Riscal, a famous winery celebrated for its innovative architecture and historic reputation. The visit includes a 1 to 1.5-hour guided tour of the winery, where visitors explore its vintage facilities and learn about its significant role in Rioja wine production. After the tour, there are 3 tastings of premium wines, allowing guests to sample some of the region’s best offerings.

This winery experience is not only about wine tasting but also about witnessing striking architecture that has made Marques de Riscal a visual icon in the region. The inclusive admission ticket ensures access to the winery’s facilities and tastings, creating an immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and wine craftsmanship.

Exploring the Boutique Winery in Samaniego

Next, the tour moves to a boutique winery located in Samaniego, a place renowned for its small-scale production and personalized wines. Here, visitors enjoy a guided tour of the facility, where they gain insight into artisan wine-making methods. The focus on premium wines means both red and white varieties are available for tasting.

The tastings at this boutique winery include 3 carefully selected wines, accompanied by light snacks such as cheese, chorizo, and fresh bread. This stop provides a more intimate perspective on local wine craftsmanship, contrasting with the grandeur of Marques de Riscal. The free admission emphasizes the boutique nature of this experience, making it a highlight for wine aficionados.

Scenic Drive Through the Ebro Valley

Throughout the trip, travelers enjoy a comfortable journey through the Ebro Valley, a landscape famous for its rolling vineyards and picturesque views. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a relaxed ride, letting guests focus on the scenery and information provided by the guide. This scenic aspect adds a layer of visual delight to the wine tastings, offering opportunities for photos of vineyards, mountains, and charming towns.

The route between Bilbao and the La Rioja wineries is carefully chosen to maximize visual appeal while maintaining efficient travel times. The start at 8:30 am allows for a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Friendly

While specific guide names are not provided, the positive reviews highlight the presence of excellent guides who explain the region’s wine history, architecture, and local customs with clarity and enthusiasm. Guests particularly appreciate Jani, who enhances the experience with engaging explanations and friendly demeanor.

The small group format ensures that guests receive personalized attention and can easily ask questions about the wines, wineries, or regional history. This personalized approach makes the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Snacks and Appetizers: Perfect Pairings

Both winery stops include light snacks designed to complement the wines. These cheese, chorizo, bread, and nuts are thoughtfully curated to enhance the tasting experience. The snacks are served at each winery, giving guests time to relax and socialize while savoring regional flavors alongside the wines.

The inclusion of water ensures guests stay hydrated throughout the day, especially after tasting multiple wines. These appetizers add a casual and authentic touch to the tour, making it feel like a local experience rather than a commercial one.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from the Radisson Collection Hotel in Bilbao, a location known for its central position and proximity to public transportation. The start time of 8:30 am provides ample opportunity to enjoy a full day of exploring.

With a maximum of 7 travelers, the tour maintains a personalized atmosphere, avoiding large crowds or overly structured group interactions. The duration of 5 to 6 hours is balanced to allow ample time at each stop without feeling rushed, while the transportation is air-conditioned for comfort.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $294.89 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience including two winery visits, tastings, snacks, and transportation. While it is a premium-priced activity, the inclusion of two distinct winery experiences and personalized service justifies the cost for many wine lovers.

Most bookings are made 75 days in advance, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The booking process includes confirmation at the time of booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Do for Wine Aficionados in Bilbao

This visit of Marques de Riscal and a boutique winery from Bilbao stands out for its quality, intimacy, and scenic beauty. The combination of luxurious architecture, expert-guided tastings, and authentic regional snacks creates a well-rounded experience tailored for connoisseurs and curious travelers alike.

The tour’s small-group format and professional guides make it both informative and personal, ideal for those who value hearty wine tastings paired with beautiful landscapes. While the price may be on the higher side, the comprehensive nature of the experience offers excellent value for anyone eager to explore La Rioja’s wine culture in a single day.

If you seek to enjoy iconic wineries like Marques de Riscal and explore local boutique wineries, this tour offers a memorable journey through one of Spain’s most celebrated wine regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early should I book this tour?
Booking at least 75 days in advance is recommended, as most reservations are made well ahead of time due to the tour’s popularity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers visits to two wineries, tastings of 3 wines at each, snacks, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and admission tickets.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it is primarily designed for adults interested in wine. The tour’s physical demands are minimal, but guests should enjoy tasting multiple wines.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour’s start. Beyond that, refunds are not available.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at the Radisson Collection Hotel in Bilbao, the same starting point.

Can I expect to learn about the region’s history?
While the main focus is on wine and architecture, guides are knowledgeable and provide informative explanations about La Rioja’s culture and wine heritage.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is made in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a relaxed ride between stops.

Are snacks provided?
Yes, light appetizers such as cheese, chorizo, bread, and nuts are served at both wineries to complement the tastings.

Would this tour suit someone with dietary restrictions?
While snacks are standard, it’s best to inquire beforehand about specific dietary needs, as the menu is limited to common regional items.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The scenic drive and vineyard views provide numerous opportunities for photos of landscapes and architecture.